Our serves as a line of defense and protects us from a lot of germs, bacteria, and dangers. Unfortunately, if it is not protected, our skin can develop conditions such as skin cancer.
There are a lot of things you can do to protect your skin from skin cancer. Let’s look at some changes you can incorporate into your lifestyle to lower your risk of developing skin cancer.
One of the best things you can do to avoid skin cancer is using sunscreen on a regular basis. It is your biggest safeguard against sun damage. Using sunscreen can reduce your risk of sunburns and skin damage significantly. Make sure to use broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15 every day – rain or shine. Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects you from UVA and UVB rays – both of which are dangerous and can lead to skin damage.
If you plan to be outside for an extended period, it’s best to go for a sunscreen that has a SPF of 30 or higher. It is also advisable to use a sunscreen that is water-resistant. This will help protect your skin in case you sweat a little. Make sure to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or so after swimming or if you sweat excessively. One application a day is not enough.
There are also other things you can do to protect yourself from skin cancer. They include:
Avoid Sunburns
One of the best ways to lower your risk of skin cancer is to avoid getting sunburns. Sunburns can be a nuisance and quite painful. But the biggest downfall to sunburns is not the temporary redness, inflammation, and pain – it’s actually the increased risk of skin cancer that comes along with every sunburn you get. To lower your risk, simply avoid situations where you could get a sunburn. If you are out on the beach, limit your time of direct exposure to the sun. This will help lower your risk of sunburns as well as your risk of developing skin cancer.
Seek the Shade
One of the best ways to lowering your risk of skin cancer is to seek the shade when possible. Everyone loves basking in sunlight, but long periods of time spent in direct sunlight can be harmful. Avoid being directly in the sun for long periods of time between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm when possible.
Avoid Tanning
One of the worst things you can do for your skin is to tan all the time. While it may look appealing, the damage done to your skin cells is not worth it. To lower your risk of skin cancer, make sure to avoid tanning in the sun as well as using tanning beds.
Get Regular Checkups with a Dermatologist
Regular checkups with a dermatologist can protect you from skin cancer. Your dermatologist can examine your skin for any unusual blemishes and will recommend changes to make to further protect your skin. As an expert on skin, your dermatologist is an invaluable resource when it comes to protecting your skin from all types of issues. Make sure to regularly visit a dermatologist – especially when you find an unusual blemish or mark on the skin.
Dermatologist and Skin Cancer Treatment in Southeast Florida
If you need a reputable and well experienced dermatologist for your skincare needs, contact the experts at Children’s Skin Center. Our staff is trained and experienced in adult and pediatric dermatology and would love to take care of your entire family’s dermatological needs.
Make an appointment today by calling (305) 669-6555. You can also request an appointment online. We look forward to serving you!
